San Quentin News

Written By Incarcerated - Advancing Social Justice

SQ keeps tradition of giving

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Veterans’ Toys for Tots continues to warm the hearts of many

One-and a-half-old Zy’ir Lewis chooses a toy

The cheer of Christmas giving filled the San Quentin State Prison visiting rooms as children celebrated the holidays with their incarcerated loved ones in December.

“We got absolutely excited!” said 11-year-old Omar Elias, who came to the prison to visit his uncle Ramon Ruelas. Elias and his younger brothers Ismael and Danny were three of about 100 children who got toys during San Quentin’s Annual Holiday Toy Program.

“You should visit me more and get more presents,” said Ruelas, laughing with his nephews. During his 10-year incarceration , they had visited before but this was their first time getting toys.

The other prisons where Ruelas was before coming to San Quentin in 2018 didn’t have toy giveaways for children, but incarcerated veterans at San Quentin have kept the Toys for Tots tradition of holiday giving alive for 31 years.

“It’s a really great act. I really appreciate it!” said nine-year-old Danny to the veterans who gave them the toys.

“Seeing the little kids’ eyes light up when they see the toys really gives me hope,” said Marine Corps veteran Carl Raybon, the new chair- man of the Veterans Group at San Quentin (VGSQ). The 35-member group of incarcerated veterans organizes the toy giveaway each year.

Raybon was one of six veterans wearing pointy red and green striped elf hats and blue VGSQ hats who offered toys and holiday cheer to every family with children visiting during the weekends before Christmas and on Christmas Day.

Vincent O’Bannon, with daughter Autumn, holds his grandson Zy’ir and Zorion
Ramon Ruelas with his nephews Omar, Danny and Ismael

A banner hung across the main visiting room declaring “Merry Christmas.” Snow- flakes, lights and garlands with red bows adorned the walls. Incarcerated fathers, uncles and granddads brought their visiting little loved ones into the children’s playroom to pick out toys to take home.

The tables were full of toys to choose from, including puzzles, charades, trivia games, Candy Land, Frozen II character sets, Marvel Avengers Black Widow and other hero figures, Vibe metallic spinners, watch and wallet sets and “Make Your Own Slime.”

A giant skee-ball game was the first toy to go. “Thank you,” said the smiling little girl. The first boy chose a Spalding NBA basketball and said, “Thank you, Merry Christmas.”

“I have so much fun do- ing this,” said Army veteran Kevin Brinkman, a VGSQ member since arriving at The Q in 2015. “It’s not just giving back, It’s giving forward.” Brinkman helped decorate and gave out toys for his third year.

“It’s all about the children,” said 33-year-old Marine Corps veteran Brian Corder, the new VGSQ Vice Chairman. “It’s a beautiful thing that even here

in prison children and families can get a Christmas experience, or at least something close.”

“It’s a blessing,” said Sergio Alvarez, who was visiting with his sisters, nieces and nephew. “We’ll do this next weekend too, so all the family can visit.” Visiting with his family is the highlight of his holiday season. Alvarez was visiting with his nephew for the first time in his seven-year incarceration.

“Woo woo!” said 2-year-old Jaylah, Alvarez’s niece, smiling and laughing as she grabbed a toy unicorn that began playing music and flashing lights. “It’s a nice surprise,” said Javyn, Alvarez’s 11-year-old nephew. It was the first time they and 13-year-old Aiyana got toys in prison.

Festively dressed families smiled for photos in front of a 7-foot Christmas tree deco- rated with garlands, balls, and a star on top.

“Every visit is a celebration, but today is a real joy,” said Jemain Hunter. He was celebrating his first Christmas together with his wife Kenya and their 19-month- old granddaughter Nayani.

“It’s a true blessing to see what lights her up—just like on the outside,” Hunter said, enjoying his granddaughter’s excitement. Nayani ran back and forth in front of the playroom and toys, smiling and giggling, and delivering sodas from the vending ma- chines to “Papa.”

“Santa Claus is coming to town,” sang a stuffed rein- deer with red bows and bells on its antlers. “Merry Christ- mas!”

VGSQ staff sponsor Rachael Murray walked in with dozens more toys, including LiteBrite, Chutes and Ladders, KerPlunk, Battleship, dolls, Legos, Transformers’ Bumblebee, and Hot Wheels. She said that the San Bruno Marines Toys for Tots program donated hundreds of toys for this year’s San Quentin event.

VGSQ member Earl Orr gave out the toys in the other visiting room in The Q’s H-Unit. Children visiting loved ones on Death Row also got to pick out toys to take home.

“Seeing the smiles on the kids’ faces brings me happiness,” said Army veteran Adam Sinegal. “It brings back good memories of Christmas with my children. I wish I was with them now.”

Danny “Heavy” Pita Jr. was visiting with his fiancée Shawna, and his little sister Harmonie. “I’m happy because I’m with my sister for the first time in about two years,” he said with a smile.

“Getting a toy was a nice surprise, but getting to see my brother is my favorite Christmas gift,” said 10-year- old Harmonie, leaning on her big brother.

A few of the Toys for Tots given to the visiting children

After five years at San Quentin, the Holiday Toy Program is something of a Christmas tradition for Vin- cent O’Bannon and his family. He was celebrating with his wife Cynthia, daughter Autumn, and grandsons Zorion and Zy’ir.

“This family time is so happy, and toys add to the excitement,” said the boys’ mother Autumn. Three-year-old Zorion shook his head yes, smiling and said, “I love my paw paw.”

Maria, a teenager, and 4-year-old Frida came in with their mom Maribel to visit their brother Jose Sanchez.

Maria helped her little sister pick out toys: “Cuál quieres” “Cuál otro” “Segura?” (Which do you want? Which other one? Are you sure?)

The Sanchezes said that be- ing together at Christmas time is important for their family. The Christmas before, Jose was in county jail. “Me siento mejor hoy porque el año pasa- do no pudimos abrazarnos por la ventana,” said Maribel. (I feel better today because last year we couldn’t hug through the window.)

By the end of the day’s Christmas excitement, 1-year- old Ja’Mal was sound asleep

in his father Jonathan Weems’ arms. Big sister Ja’Leia said, “I’m just happy to see my family.” When her mom Danisha asked about getting a toy in prison, the 4-year-old replied, “Yep, I got a Magic Mat.”

As the visiting hours ended each day at 2:00 p.m., the children came back to the play- room to pick up their toys to take home. There were many smiles, many thank you’s, and even more Felices Navidades.

Families hugged and kissed once more and parted with toys in their hands and the warmth of the holiday spirit in their hearts.

Sergio Alvarez with his sisters Mona, Maria, nieces Aiyana and Jaylah and nephew Javyn
VGSQ veterans Adam Sinegal, Carl Raybon, Brian Corder and Kevin Brinkman

SQN EXTRA: EQUINE THERAPY

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By Vincent O’Bannon, Journalism Guild Writer

Some imprisoned veterans in Connecticut are getting psychological help from an unusual source– horses.

The Equine Therapy program “is aimed at creating and maintaining healthy and mutually beneficial relationships through healing with horses,” said Renee Bouffard of Healing Hoofbeats, the sponsoring group.

The 10-week pilot program dubbed “Operation Warrior Horse” gives incarcerated veterans healing through equine-assisted therapy, The Associated Press reported Nov. 8.

“The incarceration is the punishment. It is our job, while they are here, to help them. And, this is one way we can do it,” said Correctional Commissioner Rollin Cook.

“You can label these people as inmates, but a more accurate title is human being. And these are human beings who have served our country and suffer from trauma and need our help,” Cook told AP.

One of many horses that will be part of the program
One of many horses that will be part of the program

“Learning how to do this allows our brains to form new neuropath ways and people take the knowledge of what it feels like to form these relationships and how to go about doing so into their lives outside the farm,” said Bouffard.

One participant, Daniel Elliot, said the program has helped him to open up about his problems and gives him something to look forward to each week. He is a Navy veteran, who suffered brain injury during a submarine attack.

Elliot said he didn’t feel comfortable talking about my problems until he met Hank and Sparky, two horses in the program.

“If I’m having a bad day, going through something that is a little more stressing, I show it to the horses, and they react. They let me know that it’s going to be OK,” said Elliot. “The last time I told Sparky, ‘I think it’s going to be all rright,’ and he gave me a big toothy smile.”

He is housed in a 110-bed unit in the Willard-Cybulski Correctional Institution in Enfeld.

Other prisons across the nation offer forms of equine therapy, but this is the first such program to be tailored to the needs of military veterans in prison, said counselor supervisor Aesha Nu’min.

Day of Peace at DVI

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The Day of Peace 1st place chalk
drawing winner, Miguel Saldana


On a warm day in August, more than 200 inmates at Deuel Vocational Institution (DVI) focused their efforts on self improvement and rehabilitation by attending the Day of Peace.
Organized by the Peacemakers’ Alliance Program, the event was meant as a way to shine a light on rehabilitative options for those inmates who aren’t currently engaged in such activities. More than 50 self-help groups hosted information tables and took onsite enrollment for their programs.
Thanks to the generous donations of vendors and volunteers, every inmate participant was provided with a “Success Pack” containing learning essentials such as a folder to carry class materials, writing paper, pencils, pens, a list of rehabilitative programs and an event bookmark. Light refreshments were also donated.
Through the Day of Peace, various inmate groups came together in a positive way through community building.
“Today was a truly blessed and positive day that opened my mind to the many doors that can lead me to my ultimate freedom. They should have more events like this one in the future,” said one inmate attendee.
Incarcerated veterans offer help to others in the same situation through their organization, Veterans Helping Veterans.
The keynote speaker for the day was National Center for Youth Law attorney Frankie Guzman, who co-authored Proposition 57 and Senate Bill 261.
Some of those attending included Associate Warden Kenny Johnson, Community Resources Manager Martina Virrey, Peacemakers’ Alliance Program co-founder. Photo courtesy of Lt. Christene Zoucha The Veterans Healing Veterans group extending a helping hand Angele Echele, San Francisco State University Project Rebound representative Joseph Miles and in-house bands led by DVI music coordinator Tracy Hunter.
More than 30 community volunteers who serve in self- help and religious programs at DVI were on-hand as well as five contract employees from HealthRIGHT 360 and more than 20 DVI employees ranging from correctional staff, psychologists and self- help sponsors to chaplains, library staff and education staff.
DVI Chaplain E. Santiago said the event was enlightening.
“I find that programs such as this Day of Peace open my eyes to the positive things people can do for each other,” he said.
Malachi Dad volunteer Walter Mendez echoed those sentiments.
“Here I sit in amazement, surrounded by men who want a better life,” he said.
Another volunteer said the event promotes unity.
“Today’s occasion is a day that should occur more often. Its purpose is to unite and not to divide. We need each other for survival,” said Carlos Lara, volunteer with Veterans Healing Veterans.
“Community events such as the Day of Peace empower those present to realize the available opportunities for growth and change. Taking advantage of those opportunities is not without struggle, for change is gradual and difficult. Positive change is much more possible when leaders invite others to participate in the process and offer support along the journey,” said Peacemakers’ Alliance Program co-founder Angele Echele.
“As communities and individuals grow and heal, peace is possible. Peace is contagious and has the power to transform any community. The inmate volunteers, community volunteers and DVI self-help sponsors are the leaders acting as agents for change in the DVI community and society at-large. Without the Administration and custody staff’s support and focus on maintaining a safe, secure space, the Day of Peace would not have been possible. The [event’s] success shows that hope is alive at DVI,” she said.
Students in the Peacemakers’ Alliance Critical Literacy and Peace Education course developed the Day of Peace event proposal as a community service project. Making the event possible and successful was a collaborative effort between Peacemakers’ Alliance students, inmate activity groups’ executive body members and volunteers, self-help volunteers and sponsors, the DVI administration, custody and support staff, outside donors and the inmates who voluntarily attended the Aug. 13 event.
“This basic concept is a great way to let people who normally wouldn’t know about theses groups have a chance to be informed. It’s a great idea,” said inmate Clint Livermore.
Inmates visited tables and booths to learn more about rehabilitative groups offered inside DVI.
http://sanquentinnews.com/optionb-org-support-group-overcoming-effects-incarceration/

Alliance Encourages Prisoners To ‘Change the Narrative’

A Look at Peace Day’s History

"The Fence of Time"

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If time was created to magically fly.

Would it take me soaring into the blue sky?

Beyond to a place I can never see,

Somewhere conscious and free, outside of me.

My being desires to fly, to be un-hid,

Resuming life as the innocent Kid.

Instead, there’s a steel Fence holding reality hidden,

Where true emotions are lost or forbidden.

The vicissitude in life began due to a forlorn War.

Causing only the mind to transcend past the steel door.

With Time, I linger thru the effects of my life,

Trying to survive the imposed strife.

While being impeached by thoughts not so surreal,

I should have sought a different path enabling me to feel.

Sadly, Time and I will never take flight,

War and Fence the only life, Time has in sight.

Noise from Inside is created by: John B. Tidwell

                                USMC Vietnam Veteran

“if y’all think I did it…just give me a lawyer, dawg, ‘cause this is not what’s up.”Warren Demesme said during police questioning.The Louisiana Supreme Court held that this reference was too ambiguous to count as a request for counsel.REASON Magazine, January 2018

73 percent of Alabama is within a drug-free zone, defined as extending three miles from schools, colleges and housing complexes and resulting in a five- year enhancement.  REASON Magazine, January 2018

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https://sanquentinnews.com/veterans-and-shakespeare-converge-to-tell-war-stories/
https://sanquentinnews.com/stings-entangle-sex-workers-victims-perpetrators/

San Quentin News World Travels

"The American soldier standing guard at Christmas"

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The embers glowed softly, and in their dim light,

I gazed around the room and cherished the sight.

My wife was asleep, her head on my chest,

My daughter beside me, angelic in rest.

Outside the snow feel, a blanket of white,

Transforming the yard to a winter delight.

The sparkling lights in the tree I believe,

Completed the magic that Christmas Eve.

My eyelids were heavy, my breathing was deep,

Secure and surrounded by love I would sleep.

In perfect contentment, or so it would seem,

So I slumbered, perhaps I started to dream.

The sound wasn’t loud, and it wasn’t too near,

But I opened my eyes when it tickled my ear.

Perhaps just a cough, I didn’t quite know, then the

Sure sound of footsteps outside in the snow.

My soul gave a tremble, I struggled to hear,

And I crept to the door just to see was near.

Standing out in the cold and dark of night.

A long figure stood his face weary and tight.

A soldier. I puzzled some twenty years old,

Perhaps a Marine, huddled here in the cold.

Alone in the dark, he looked up and smiled.

Standing watch over me, and my wife and my child.

“What are you doing?” I asked without fear,

“come in this moment, it’s freezing out there!

Put down your pack; brush the snow from your sleeve,

You should be at home on a Cold Christmas Eve!”

For barely a moment I saw his eyes shift,

Away from the cold and snow blown in drifts..

To the window that danced with a warm fire’s light

The he sighed and he said “It’s really all right,

I’m out here by choice. I’m here every night”

“It’s my duty to stand at the front of the line,

That separates you from the darkest of times.

No one had to ask or beg or implore me,

I’m proud to stand here like my fathers before me.

My Gramps died at ‘Pearl on a day in December,”

Then he sighed, “That’s a Christmas ‘Gran always remembers.”

My dad stood his watch in the jungles of Nam’

And now it is my turn and so, here I am.

I’ve not seen my own son in more than a while

But my wife sends me pictures, he sure got her smile.

Then he bent and carefully pulled from his bag,

The red, white, and blue.. An American flag.

I can live through the cold and being alone,

Away from my family, my house and my home

I can stand at my post through the rain and the sleet,

I can sleep in a foxhole with little to eat.

I can carry the weigh of killing another,

Or lay down my life with my sisters and brother..

Who stand at the front against any and all,

To ensure for all time that this flag will not fall.”

“So go back inside, “he said, “Harbor no fright,

Your family is waiting and I’ll be all right.”

“But isn’t there something I can do, at the least,

“Give you money,” I asked, “or prepare you a feast?

It seems all too little for all that you’ve done,

For being away from your wife and your son.”

Then his eye welled a tear that held no regret

“Just tell us you love us, and never forget.

To fight for our watch, no matter how long.

For when we come home, either standing or dead,

To know you remember we fought and we bled.

Is payment enough, and with that we will trust,

That we mattered to you as you mattered to us.”

By VGSQ member

“if y’all think I did it…just give me a lawyer, dawg, ‘cause this is not what’s up.”Warren Demesme said during police questioning.The Louisiana Supreme Court held that this reference was too ambiguous to count as a request for counsel.REASON Magazine, January 2018

73 percent of Alabama is within a drug-free zone, defined as extending three miles from schools, colleges and housing complexes and resulting in a five- year enhancement.  REASON Magazine, January 2018

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San Quentin News World Travels

Raising awareness California’s ‘Life Without’

Vietnam Veterans Group of San Quentin

Reflections of a veteran: Davis Bennett

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Davis Bennett, far right, toasting with army brothers and sisters

Davis Bennett, far right, toasting with army brothers and sisters

Davis Bennett, 75, enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1961. He is one of the many combat veterans serving time at San Quentin State Prison.

Bennett served in Vietnam in October 1967 and December 1970.

“I was assigned to the 1st Armored Division and was a machine gunner on an APC (Armored Personnel Carrier),” he said. His unit consisted of three tanks, three APCs, a company of about 150 infantry men and a mortar squad of about 12 men.

“I was wounded three times while in an APC. Once a VC (Viet Cong) rocket-propelled grenade, better known as an RPG, was fired at the vehicle, and it exploded on the side of the APC. I was hit in the jaw by shrapnel fragments. It took two of my teeth.”

Bennett was wounded twice more. He was hit in his lower back side, coming out of the APC’s turret. The other injury came after his APC hit a mine, throwing him off the turret and damaging his right arm. When the APC hit the mine, most of its crew was killed and the rest were seriously wounded.

“It was very bad,” he said. “We were trying to help the wounded, and there were body parts on the ground and in the trees. I’ll never forget that day.” His APC unit was awarded the Vietnam Gallantry Cross.

Bennett was awarded several medals and ribbons for his service:

Bronze Star with two Oak Leaf Clusters

Three Purple Hearts

Five Good Conduct Medals

National Defense Ribbon

Vietnam Service Medal

Three Non-Commissioned Officer Development Ribbons

Army Service Ribbon

Two Overseas Service Ribbons

Vietnam Gallantry Cross with Palm Unit Citation

Vietnam Campaign Medal

Combat Infantry Badge

Expert Rifle M-16

Today, he is being treated at the prison hospital for cancer that developed in his jaw. He thinks the cancer is related to the old war injury he sustained when the RPG hit his APC.

Bennett was born Feb.10, 1942. He was raised in Winona, Miss., and is the youngest of 10 brothers and six sisters. All the boys have served in the U.S. Army. He served in the U.S. Army 21 years and nine months. He retired as a First Sergeant.

The Bennett family moved to California, along with an uncle, in 1955. They moved to Oakland the following year.

Bennett was living with one of his brothers in 2008. There they befriended a homeless man, Nemo. They would let him hang around their house and sleep in their yard. He would also help Nemo by giving him $5 a day, and from time to time they’d have a drink.

One day in 2012, Bennett went to the bank and withdrew $3,000. He sat on his porch counting the money. Nemo asked for some.

“I give you money all the time, and I am not going to give you anymore,” Bennett said.

Bennett says Nemo threatened to beat him up. Bennett picked up a shovel and told Nemo to leave. However, Nemo responded by attacking and punching Bennett. In the chaos, Bennett said he got his handgun. Nemo hit him once again, and he shot Nemo in the chest. Nemo walked away and died later.

“They at first wanted to charge me with first-degree murder and then second-degree. They lowered it to manslaughter. I received a seven-year sentence. I will be released on June 5, 2018,” Bennett said.

If an incarcerated veteran wants to learn more about VHV or if they or their family may qualify for additional benefits, please contact:

Mary Donovan, Executive Director of VHV 

PO BOX 432

San Quentin, CA 94964

mary@veteranshealingveterans.org

The VHV website is veteranshealingveterans.org

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http://sanquentinnews.com/vietnam-veterans-group-of-san-quentin-scholarship-award/

San Quentin’s big transition as non-designated facility

Veterans’ 29th annual Toys-for-Tots giveaway

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The holiday spirit enriched the Main Visiting Room for five days in December. For two consecutive weekends, the fully decorated seven-foot Christmas tree was the busiest place at San Quentin. Inmates and their families took pictures in front of it.

For the 29th consecutive year, Marines from the San Bruno Recruitment Station donated toys for children of inmates at the prison. This year, the veterans at San Quentin put out over 500 toys for the kids, the biggest donation received in the last six years, said Gary Cooper, president of the San Quentin Veteran Group.

This annual event was a humbling reminder why San Quentin veterans share Christmas weekends with families. It brings joy and happiness watching children smile and say “Thank you” after selecting a gift in the toy room, Cooper said.

Children enjoying a day in the San Quentin visiting room with their parents and toys

Children enjoying a day in the San Quentin visiting room with their parents and toys

This year’s veteran’s group was represented by Cooper, Tony Burch, JoJo Robinson, Benny Werener, Zakee Hutchinson, Carl Raybon and Stan Baer, who all watched the children choose a gift. They had toys for kids of all ages.

While some children waited patiently in line to enter the toy room, others looked through the window glowing with smiles of excitement waiting for their turn. There were Tonka trucks, plastic cars, construction sets, battery-driven remote control toys, lunch pails, a large variety of stuffed dolls, Barbie dolls, monkeys, trivia and board games, puzzles and elephants. Other favorite selections on display were action heroes, boats, basketballs, soccer balls, baseballs and bats.

Julie Kane drove from San Jose with her two kids, Riley, 8 and Kai, 4, to see her best friend, Nick Bucci. Kai saw the Monster High dolls and got so excited she took the doll off the table and ran over to her mother, radiating with delight, saying, “Mommy, look.”

Inmate Sonny Nguyen’s 11-year-old nephew, Ethan, came from Colorado to see him for the first time. He was so impressed, all he could say was, “What a variety of toys.”

Several younger kids saw toys that captured their imagination, and were too excited to say anything. Four-year old Kamille likes the Beatles, so when she saw the Beatles doll, all her mother could say was, “She knows all their songs.”

Hutchinson said, “The kids bring us so much joy and happiness, it’s just so much fun giving something to someone who really appreciates it.”

Werner said, “This is my last year participating in the program here at San Quentin. I’ll be going to another prison before the next holiday. I’ll really miss it. But, this has always been an opportunity for me to give back to kids. I missed out on being a father during these times.”

“This is my way of sharing with others, just seeing the smiles on the faces of the kids whose eyes light up when they see the gift they like; what a great feeling,” Cooper said.     

“This is my 10th year, and it seems to get better every year. It’s so encouraging to see the engaging. When asked about the meaning of Christmas, appreciate something so simple as a toy. It’s the giving back that I enjoy,” said Robinson.

Inmate Ladell Jackson and his wife, Elayne, said they hope that this will be his last Christmas in prison. “I am going to the board next year, and I’m looking forward to celebrating this joy outside of prison.”

“Christmas season is always the time to remind ourselves of how important family is,” inmate John Lam said.   

“Holidays are important times of the year, regardless if you are inside or outside of prison. The best qualities shared during the holiday should be the same qualities we should share all year,” inmate Larry White said.

If an incarcerated veteran wants to learn more about VHV or if they or their family may qualify for additional benefits, please contact:

Mary Donovan, Executive Director of VHV

PO BOX 432

San Quentin, CA 94964

mary@veteranshealingveterans.org

The VHV website is veteranshealingveterans.org

 

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What Christmas Means To Me

350 men honor Veteran’s Day at SQ

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Sponsors and the Veterans Healing Veterans group on the Lower Yard

Sponsors and the Veterans Healing Veterans group on the Lower Yard

Every year, the 11th day of the 11th month in the United States commemorates Veterans Day. It was no different in San Quentin for the more than 350 incarcerated men who once served in America’s armed forces.

Nearly a dozen community supporters ventured inside the prison to pay their respect with about 50 of the incarcerated veterans who gathered in front of a stage set on the prison’s Lower Yard.

The tribute began early Saturday morning with 1970s music blaring and the smell of burning wood coming from the Native Americans’ sacred grounds.

In the distance, inmates played a pick-up basketball game against the Lincoln Hill Community Church. Across the yard, UC San Francisco Dons joined a match with the prison tennis team.

Meanwhile, on stage, the incarcerated veterans, many with combat experience in wars from Vietnam to Afghanistan, readied themselves to tell stories about their military experience.

First, though, everyone in the yard stood at attention as the national anthem played. All the veterans saluted the flag as the civilians and correctional officers held their right hands over their hearts.

At the conclusion of the national anthem, someone from the Native Americans’ sacred grounds yelled the Marines’, “oorah,” which brought several whistles and an applause.

The tone of the event ranged from joyous to solemn.

“This is a very hard day for me,” said veteran Eric Davidson with his head hung as he earnestly recalled his service. Davison served across the globe in the 1st Marine Division and 1st Force Recon Battalion from 1988 to 1998.

Dennis Nelson, another veteran, served in the Marines. He did three tours in Vietnam, 1967, ’68 and ’69.

“Veterans Day honors all American veterans, both living and dead,” Nelson said. “In fact, Veterans Day is intended to thank living veterans’ dedicated and loyal service to their country. The biggest national debt is not government spending or federal deficits, but that debt America owes to these veterans.”

David “Solo” Bennet, who emceed the Seventh Annual Veterans Healing Veterans From the Inside Out Veterans Day celebration, said, “I consider myself as an advocate and a helper.”

He added: “As a human being it is my responsibility to give back and pay forward the help and assistance given to me by people in my past.”

JD Martin, who served in the 82nd Airborne, 173rd Airborne Division, said he watched the latest Ken Burns documentary on Vietnam.

“It showed all the trauma and horrors of the battles,” Martin said as he read about what it meant to be a soldier during the Vietnam era.

“I will not be explicit because after 50 years, the horror is still there,” Martin said.

Dennis Barnes served in Vietnam between 1967 and 1973. He did three combat tours.

“At this very moment, men and women are serving around the world under all kinds of weather. They are vigilant and of all races looking out for our freedoms. Be proud of them. We can complain about all kinds of things, but be thankful for our veterans — remember America needs you.”

“The survival of democracy depends on the sacrifice of veterans,” said James “Shorty” Dunbar, clerk for the veterans program. “The most cherished wish of all veterans is for peace.”

The program’s chairman, Gary Cooper, summed up the sentiment for many of the incarcerated veterans, “War, what is it good for? Absolutely nothing, and that’s true. I will always be a veteran, before I am an inmate.”

Tina Rutsch has been visiting San Quentin for about two years to help veterans to tell their stories through theatrical performances.

She said the experience of having the honor of laying a wreath on the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier as a teenager was impactful to her.

“Since then, I’ve always had an interest in veterans, but my path went to the theater,” she said. Years later, an experience with Marin Shakespeare Company gave her the chance to come inside San Quentin and work with incarcerated veterans.

She is currently recruiting incarcerated men for her next theater production.

“I’m excited. It is the third year for the Veterans Theater through Marin Shakespeare. We take ideas that the veterans have and share stories and experiences. We then connect shared stories and we talk and listen to each other to come up with the performance. We want to include all voices, veteran or not.”

Emcee Bennet said, “I get great pleasure in making others feel better about themselves. Playing an intimate part in putting on the Veterans Day ceremony was very fulfilling in that it brought together people from different walks of life and even from different generations.”

If an incarcerated veteran wants to learn more about VHV or if they or their family may qualify for additional benefits, please contact:

Mary Donovan, Executive Director of VHV

PO BOX 432

San Quentin, CA 94964

mary@veteranshealingveterans.org

The VHV website is veteranshealingveterans.org

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450 Former Military Warriors Honored on Veteran’s Day

Reflections of a veteran: Davis Bennett

Counselors recognized at 11th Annual Recovery Day

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Kristin Lobos, Dr. Davida Coady, Michael Kirkpatrick and Tith Ton talking about recovery

Kristin Lobos, Dr. Davida Coady, Michael Kirkpatrick and Tith Ton talking about recovery

Seven San Quentin inmates have completed a three-year intensive program qualifying them as addiction recovery counselors.

They were recognized at the 11th Annual Addiction Recovery Day, along with representatives of Peet’s Coffee and Tea, financial supporters.

The program required 2,240 hours of counseling training to meet the educational and experience criteria for professional certification. The graduates were: John Bergeron, Gregory “White Eagle” Coates, John Lam, Edward Scott, Nou Thao, Martin Walters and Quinton Walker.

Peet’s Coffee was recognized for the generosity of its employees, who donated a portion of their Christmas tips to support the ARC program.

The total drug-overdose deaths was 64,070 in the 12 months through January 2017.”  The Wall Street Journal, Oct. 27, 2017 wsj.com/usnews

“Opioids, such as fentanyl, heroin, oxycodone and hydrocodone, killed more than 34,500 people in 2016.”The Wall Street Journal, Oct. 27, 2017 wsj.com/usnews

Recovery saved my life,” said Walters, who added that he has been sober for nine years. “It was a journey. I have been in many dark dungeons in these state prisons. But I found love for myself and the tools to stay sober, and now I’m certified to continue to help others.”

The local Peet’s staff shared Walters’ desire to give back to those harmed by addiction. Peet’s district manager, Rick Ramirez, and outlet store manager, Mallory Olmstead, came to the event on Sept. 23 and spoke about how their family members’ struggles with addiction prompted them to advocate for donating to the ARC program.

“Recovery saved my life”

“We are proud to help,” Olmstead said. “You can see the impact it is having, and we will take that back to our stores. I had family suffer from addiction and didn’t get help they needed, and to see the drive of these men makes you want to move forward.”

Ramirez added, “My father was an addict and died. I grew up around a lot of guns, violence and alcoholism as a child, and it was very scary. I’m just glad I made some good choices and had an uncle that was a good example.

“Coming here makes you appreciate what you have,” he continued. “What these men have shown is that if you open up yourself, you can have an impact. They have taught me to start thinking the same.”

The small crowd of visitors and the incarcerated were treated to the smooth sounds of the San Quentin Music Program, which was sponsored by prison staff member Raphaele Casale. San Quentin’s house bands received thunderous applause for several original songs, and visiting comedian Mark Lundholm, a former prisoner himself, had heads rolling back with laughter.

Mark Lundholm performing his stand-up routine

Mark Lundholm performing his stand-up routine

“I mow the warden’s lawn so I can do whatever I want here,” said Lundholm. “You can always tell who the new inmates are because they are the ones always moving around. The hard-chiseled ones have been around a while because they just stand there. That’s how you spot the new COs (correctional officers) too, they always moving around, while the older ones are just waiting around for retirement.”

Lundholm heckled a few inmates and staff and joked about his time in prison and his own struggles with addiction. But he got serious with the crowd when he shared how his father molested him.

“My father taught me how to use my words because I had to protect my brothers,” Lundholm said. “I learned to use comedy to defend myself. I also learned you must forgive the perp because, if you don’t, you will become one of them.”

Lundholm encouraged the men in blue: “Don’t wait for someone to tell you that you are great. You have to tell yourself that now; when I was in prison I told myself that and look where I’m at in my life.”

Dr. Davida Coady, ARC volunteer instructor, called each graduate to the podium to receive his diploma, and each gave a short speech.

“It’s about somebody believing in you, and that’s what we give our clients (other prisoners),” said certificate-earner Thao. “A lot of people in San Quentin suffer from low self-esteem but won’t admit it. That’s why we try to build courage and self-worth in our clients, because living in a false reality can keep you in a world of drugs and alcohol.”

Thao stressed the importance of knowing the difference between having a Relapse Prevention “Plan” and a Relapse Prevention “Program.”

“A program is about communicating your needs and wants that helps you get through your impulse behavior,” Thao said, “while a plan is just something you have on paper.”

Visitor Daniel Petersen of the Support 4 Recovery organization shared how the dyslexia he suffered from as a kid led to addiction.

“I felt ashamed, alienated and different,” Petersen said. “And at school I would start fights so I wouldn’t be exposed. Then I got introduced to drugs. I got praised for my high tolerance for drugs and my ability to score drugs. I went from snorting, to smoking, to shooting dope.

Daniel Petersen of Support 4 Recovery speakingis

Daniel Petersen of Support 4 Recovery speakingis

“I had a friend murdered while he was stealing car radios, and I had a close friend die from an overdose,” he continued. “I was sitting in a dope house and started to cry. I knew I needed to change. I checked into New Bridge Foundation and began my delicate road to recovery. Once you place recovery first, everything else will fall in place.”

Petersen said he just celebrated 19 years of sobriety in June.

Kristin Lobos, from Support 4 Recovery, spoke about having a teenage daughter who went through an addiction and is now five years clean and has an 18-month-old baby.

“I just live in a space of just loving her,” Lobos said. “You just have to build a system of doors of recovery they can walk through. But they have to have the courage to walk through them.

“That’s why I like coming to these graduations, because a lot of people don’t understand the rewards of having a family member in the recovery process. It’s a healing journey and not just a dark scary place. It’s about walking that path with your loved one, and I’m walking mine with my daughter,” she added.

The event ended with a pledge to maintain sobriety and to continue to help others.

“This is our community,” said Walker, another certificate earner. “It’s necessary for us to step forward and begin to help and heal each other. I’m thankful for being a part of this team of counselors. We know what it’s like to feel hopeless, so we are here today to say there is hope.”

A special thanks went out to the ARC volunteers and sponsors Dr. Davida Coady, Tom Gorham, Ric Baez, Tom Aswald, Kiki Kessler, Martina Spilman, Judy Bassen and the San Quentin administration.

SQ veterans donate nearly $5,000 to the U.S. Marines

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The honor guard performing the ceremony

The honor guard performing the ceremony

Incarcerated veterans at San Quentin on July 11 handed over a check for nearly $5,000 to a team of United States Marines. The money supports a program that gives presents to children who visit their incarcerated parents during the Christmas holiday season.

Toys for Tots provides the gifts to children 17 years and younger.

“We appreciate you guys having us here. It’s a big honor,” said Staff Sgt. Ramon, 30, United States Marine Corps. “Vets are less than 1 percent of the country. That means 99 percent of the country doesn’t do what you do. Nobody can take that away.”

Marine Sgt. Higgins, Sgt. Anunciacion and Sgt. Hull joined Ramon. They are stationed at the Recruitment Center in San Bruno.

The check was presented at the Veterans Group of San Quentin (VGSQ) annual banquet. Chairman Gary Cooper, joined by the program’s Chief Sponsor, Madeline Tenney, made the presentation in the prison’s Protestant Chapel.

“Growing up, I lived off Toys for Tots, so it feels good to give back.” Ramon said to the crowd of about 50 inmates and a dozen outside guests. “Coming in here and having a banquet with incarcerated veterans is about keeping up the military tradition.”

Ninety-seven percent of the money goes for toys. Three percent goes to logistics.

“I feel very enthused about where the money is going,” said Alvin Timbol, 40, the youngest incarcerated veteran. “I’m a parent, and the money is going to a very good cause.”

Veteran Alvin Timbol

Veteran Alvin Timbol

 

“The brotherhood and sisterhood of vets never dies. This kind of camaraderie keeps you strong”

Tony Burch, a soaring a cappella tenor, sang the national anthem. Tenney, a soprano, joined Burch in harmony. The incarcerated veterans stood at attention, saluting the flag, while some joined in song.

“This day represents camaraderie,” Cooper said. “Since I’ve been chairman, this is the first banquet in three years,” he added, “We used to have a scholarship program for high school kids that would raise about $12,000 each time we did a fundraiser. I hope to bring that back one day.”

Last year, the group raised $688. “So raising $4,911 is a big deal,” Cooper said.

The outside guests and incarcerated veterans were seated at decorated tables to eat a meal of baked chicken, barbecue meatballs, corn, potato salad, macaroni and cheese, with chocolate cake and apple crisp for dessert.

A prayer by Chaplain Mardi Jackson blessed the food and thanked the military men and women for their service to America.

Seven flags, representing each service branch, were displayed. The incarcerated veterans, most well over 60 years of age, fought in various battles and conflicts, from Korea to the current wars in the Middle East. Several took to the stage to read personal accounts of what it meant to serve in the military.

Several individuals were given certificates of appreciation for their extraordinary work for VGSQ.

Cooper called Kate O’Hare-Palmer, Army Nurse Corps, who served in Vietnam in 1968-69, honoring her contribution to the country.

“I’m very humbled,” O’Hare-Palmer said. “The brotherhood and sisterhood of vets never dies. This kind of camaraderie keeps you strong.”

O’Hare-Palmer continues serving the country as the National Women’s Chair of Vietnam Veterans of America.

“The veterans group has kept me grounded. It keeps me from developing that prison mentality,” Samuel L. Gaskins, 65, said. “It keeps me connected to the military community, which is positive.

“I’m feeling great, being around veterans. There’s a feeling of camaraderie, particularly for guys who’ve been in combat. You can always tell combat vets.”

Gaskins has been at San Quentin since 2011. He’s scheduled to be released from prison in 2019.

Staff Sgt. Torres Ramon

Staff Sgt. Torres Ramon

Reminding the incarcerated veterans, Staff Sgt. Ramon said, “I understand that life creates different circumstances, but you have your brothers and sisters out there supporting you.”

Music was provided by Lee Jaspar, guitar; Darryl Farris, bass; Dwight Krizman, drums; and Michael Adams, percussions.

If an incarcerated veteran wants to learn more about VHV or if they or their family may qualify for additional benefits, please contact:

Mary Donovan, Executive Director of VHV

PO BOX 432

San Quentin, CA 94964

mary@veteranshealingveterans.org

The VHV website is veteranshealingveterans.org

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